Tarar assures any proposed legislation would be in collective interest of nation

Information minister says govt seeking broader consensus on constitutional amendments

ISLAMABAD:

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said on Sunday that efforts are underway to forge a broader consensus between the government and the opposition on key constitutional amendments. The delay in progress, he noted, is due to ongoing consultations.

Speaking to the media outside the Parliament in Islamabad, the minister assured that any proposed legislation would be in the collective interest of the nation. He noted that the judiciary has faced delays in resolving cases for many decades, making it imperative to implement measures for quicker justice.

Tarar described the current moment as a significant juncture in Pakistan's history. He highlighted that the promise to facilitate justice was a key component of the Charter of Democracy. He stressed that the government is committed to improving the justice system in the country. He stated that these amendments are expected to bring positive changes to the lives of every Pakistani.

The minister asserted that Parliament has the authority to amend the constitution and laws, and it is the duty of elected representatives to enact legislation that benefits the public.

He further explained that the process of consultation on the constitutional amendments is ongoing and aims to be completed positively. Tarar expressed hope that progress would be made today, with updates to be provided to the media soon.

He attributed the delays solely to the consultation process, noting that meetings have taken place with key figures, including Maulana Fazlur Rehman and a delegation from the Pakistan Peoples Party.

Tarar acknowledged that constitutional amendments are a serious matter and may involve delays. However, he believes that thorough discussions and consensus-building will lead to beneficial outcomes. He expressed optimism that when the amendments are presented, they will be well-received by the public.

The minister also remarked that constructive input from legal experts is valuable, and the participation of all political parties in this democratic process enhances its credibility.

Tarar highlighted that all coalition parties are represented on the special committee formed to address this issue. He also mentioned that Pakistan People’s Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar had discussed the Charter of Democracy as a framework for judicial reforms.

“Any amendment on matters of national concern should benefit the entire Pakistani nation,” he stated. He pointed out that legal gaps have often led to issues such as unissued cause lists, unserved notices, and delayed orders.

The minister called for a balanced system to address these problems effectively. He added that a cabinet meeting would be convened soon, with all cabinet members present to discuss the reforms.

Meanwhile, he dispelled concerns about any “person-specific” legislation, reaffirming the government’s commitment to delivering speedy justice for the people of Pakistan. "Reforms are overdue to ensure that the people of Pakistan have access to swift justice," he added.

In response to a query, he maintained that the government would secure the necessary numbers in both Houses for the new legislation. "It is incorrect to believe that there is any person-specific legislation. Our focus is solely on the greater good of the masses," he reiterated.

Tarar noted that all political parties are united in their goal to provide speedy justice at the doorstep of the people. He also mentioned that a special committee, consisting of allied parties, is currently in session. Given the national importance of these reforms, he maintained that the Cabinet would convene shortly to discuss the matter.